Liberian Fish Stew
A flavorful and aromatic fish stew, often made with a tomato base, onions, peppers, and a blend of West African spices. It's a comforting and satisfying dish typically served with rice.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 lb Firm white fish (e.g., tilapia, snapper, catfish)(cut into steaks or large pieces)
- 2 medium Onions(chopped)
- 1 large Bell peppers (red or green)(chopped)
- 4 medium Tomatoes(ripe, blended or finely chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated or minced)
- 1/2 - 1 Habanero or Scotch bonnet pepper(optional, finely chopped)
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1/4 cup Vegetable oil or palm oil
- 2 cups Water or fish broth
- 2 Knorr or Maggi cubes
- to taste Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 1/4 cup Basil or parsley(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Season the fish pieces with salt and black pepper. You can lightly fry the fish until golden brown on both sides, then set aside. This step is optional but adds flavor and texture.
- 2
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped bell peppers, and optional habanero pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- 4
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Then, add the blended or chopped tomatoes. Cook down the tomato mixture for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the raw tomato taste is gone.
💡 Tip: Ensure the tomatoes cook down sufficiently to avoid a sour taste. - 5
Pour in the water or fish broth, add the Knorr/Maggi cubes, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- 6
Gently add the fish pieces (fried or raw) to the stew. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
💡 Tip: Be careful not to overcook the fish. - 7
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed. Stir in chopped basil or parsley just before serving.
💡 Tip: The stew should have a rich, savory flavor with a hint of spice. - 8
Serve the Liberian fish stew hot with white rice.
💡 Tip: This stew is also delicious with fufu or boiled plantains.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using fresh, ripe tomatoes will yield the best flavor.
- ✓Don't stir the fish too much once added to the stew to prevent it from breaking apart.
- ✓For a thicker stew, you can mash some of the cooked tomatoes against the side of the pot.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like okra or spinach.
- Include shrimp or other seafood along with the fish.
- For a richer flavor, use coconut milk in addition to water or broth.